The Tour du Mont Blanc Gear List: What You Really Need to Bring

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most iconic long-distance treks in Europe — a 170 kilometer circuit that winds through France, Italy, and Switzerland. With stunning alpine scenery, charming mountain villages, and ever-changing weather, this trek rewards those who come prepared.

At Life Happens Outdoors, we believe in making the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible — and that begins with packing right. This Tour du Mont Blanc gear list is built from years of guiding hikers across the route. It includes everything you need and nothing you don’t.

If you’re wondering what to pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc, start here.

Sleeping

While most nights are spent in mountain huts or hotels, comfort is key after long days on the trail.

• Sleeping bag liner (optional): Lightweight, compact, and adds comfort during hut stays.

Head, Face and Neck

You’ll be exposed to sun, wind, and sometimes unexpected rain or snow. Protecting your head and face is essential on the TMB trail.

• Buff or scarf for warmth, dust, or sun
• Sun hat or cap for daytime protection
• Warm beanie for cool mornings and evenings
• Sunglasses (Category 3 or 4) to reduce glare on high alpine sections

Upper Body

Weather conditions change rapidly in the Alps. Layering will help you adapt as you move through different valleys and elevations.

• 1 warm base layer for cold starts or relaxing at night
• 6 quick dry t shirts for daily hiking
• 1 fleece or other insulating layer for warmth
• 1 down or insulated jacket for chilly stops or higher altitudes
• 1 waterproof rain jacket (Gore Tex or equivalent)
• 1 rain poncho for extra protection in heavy rain

Lower Body

From cool, damp mornings to sunny ridge crossings, your legs will thank you for choosing breathable and weather-resistant layers.

• 1 warm base layer for colder mornings or poor weather
• 1 pair trekking pants for daily use
• 1 pair trekking shorts for warm days
• 1 pair waterproof rain pants to stay dry in alpine storms

Feet and Hands

The Tour du Mont Blanc hike involves varied terrain — rocky trails, forest paths, and snowfields in early season. Take care of your feet and hands.

• 1 pair liner gloves for cool mornings
• 1 pair waterproof gloves for wet or cold weather
• 1 pair warm trekking socks for colder days
• 5 pairs light trekking socks for daily wear
• 1 pair high ankle waterproof trekking boots — broken in and supportive

Technical Gear

These are your everyday essentials. The Tour du Mont Blanc is not a technical climb, but smart gear makes the long days more enjoyable.

• 30 liter backpack for daily use
• Waterproof backpack cover to keep contents dry
• Travel luggage or duffel bag for storing extra items between stops
• Adjustable trekking poles to reduce impact on knees and aid balance
• 2 reusable water bottles (1 liter each)
• Outdoor multisport watch (optional) for tracking distance, time, and altitude

Personal Items and Comfort

The small details make a big difference when hiking multiple days in a row.

• Sleepwear for huts or hotels
• Toiletries (biodegradable preferred for shared facilities)
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) for daily protection
• Reusable earplugs for sleeping in shared rooms
• Light flip flops (optional) for relaxing in huts
• Quick dry towel for showers
• Any personal medication
• Outlet adaptors (Europe standard)

Documents

Don’t forget the paperwork — especially important when crossing borders on the Mont Blanc trek.

• Flight information
• Insurance documents
• Passport and any required visas

Final Thoughts

The Tour du Mont Blanc is as much about the journey as the destination. Each day is different — one moment you’re walking through a flower-filled valley, the next you’re navigating a high mountain pass. With the right gear, you’ll be ready for all of it.

At Life Happens Outdoors, we’ve helped hundreds of hikers complete this circuit with confidence. Packing right is the first step.